TARLAC CITY, Tarlac — The Supreme Court en banc has affirmed the proclamation of Susan Areno Yap-Sulit as the duly elected mayor of this city, ruling that the Commission on Elections gravely abused its discretion in canceling her certificate of candidacy over residency issues.
In a full court decision written by Associate Justice Antonio Kho Jr and made public on Thursday, July 30, the high tribunal declared permanent the status quo ante order it issued in November 2025, which had restored Yap-Sulit to her post while the legal battle unfolded.
The ruling officially annuls the Comelec en banc resolution dated October 22, 2025, that reversed a previous dismissal by the poll body’s Second Division.
The disqualification case stemmed from a petition filed by former city councilor Amado De Leon and Jay-Ar Navarro, who alleged that Yap-Sulit failed to satisfy the mandatory one-year residency requirement before the elections. However, the Supreme Court found that the evidence failed to prove she had abandoned her domicile or made false representations in her COC.
The justices highlighted Yap-Sulit’s longstanding ties to the locality, pointing to her voter registration, property interests, public service, and her three consecutive terms as governor of Tarlac operating out of the capital.
“She is hardly a stranger to the locality. Even if the period of her residency in Tarlac City is disputed here, her political exposure to and experience in the city shows that she is neither a stranger nor a newcomer who is unacquainted with the conditions and needs of a community,” the court stated, adding that temporary or intermittent absence does not constitute an abandonment of domicile.
Reiterating its stance on protecting democratic mandates, the court emphasized that giving effect to the choice of the electorate ensures the survival of democracy, noting that the evidence presented established no actual ineligibility.
Following the high court’s decision, Mayor Yap-Sulit took to social media to share a message of gratitude and unity with her constituents. In a post, she expressed that there is “no room for bitterness” and called for collective healing.
“Today, the Supreme Court affirmed the mandate freely given to us by the people of Tarlac City,” Yap-Sulit said in her statement. “This is a victory for every Tarlaqueño who stood by the truth and defended the sanctity of the people’s vote.”
She extended her appreciation to her family, legal team, supporters, city government employees, and every citizen who remained steadfast.
“There is no room for bitterness. This is a time for healing, unity and renewed service. We invite everyone, including those who stood on the other side of this case, to join us in building a more progressive, compassionate and united Tarlac City,” she added.
